Glossary

CARDS

(Programme closed since 2006, but some tenders can still be published)
The programme of Community Assistance for Reconstruction, Development and Stabilisation (CARDS) makes up the single framework of assistance for the Western Balkan countries aimed at supporting their participation in the stabilisation and association process. Community assistance is conditional upon respect for democratic principles, the rule of law, human rights, including the rights of minorities, and the implementation of reforms. CARDS programme assistance for the Western Balkan countries with candidate country status is limited to programmes and projects with a regional dimension.
The CARDS programme is replaced by the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA) since 2007.